The bill would cut the maximum amount of weeks someone could receive benefits from 26 to 14 if unemployment is at or below six percent.

For every half percent the unemployment rate is above 6.5 percent, an additional week of unemployment would be offered. The maximum amount of weeks would cap out at 20.

The maximum dollar amount received via unemployment would be raised from $265 to $275. An additional five weeks of unemployment would be offered if a person is in a job training program.

According to the bill sponsor Sen. Arthur Orr, R-Senate District 3, the bill would save businesses more than $50 million dollars, while putting Alabama law in line with many of its neighboring states.

Sen. Rodger Smitherman, D-Senate District 18, added an amendment offered to the county's unemployment rate, not the state's. This would allow some rural counties to allow for a slightly longer period of unemployment benefits than others.

Smitherman is against the bill, saying it could cost those families who need the cash more than $1800.

Taking a picture or video of a person's intimate body parts without consent could soon be a crime in Alabama. A bill to criminalize so-called upskirting passed the Senate and moves to the House for a final vote.

Taking a picture or video of a person's intimate body parts without consent could soon be a crime in Alabama. A bill to criminalize so-called upskirting passed the Senate and moves to the House for a final vote.

Alabama lawmakers are headed into the final days of the 2018 session with key votes looming on proposals to allow some teachers to carry guns in school, changing the position of lieutenant governor and other bills.

Alabama lawmakers are headed into the final days of the 2018 session with key votes looming on proposals to allow some teachers to carry guns in school, changing the position of lieutenant governor and other bills.

Alabama has long exempted daycares that claim a religious affiliation from the requirement to get a state license and standards. That will change if Gov. Ivey signs new legislation. (Source: WSFA 12 News file photo)

Alabama lawmakers have voted to give the state limited oversight over faith based daycares. The Alabama Senate voted 22-4 on Thursday for the compromise legislation.